TSKgel Alpha Columns for the Analysis of Polar Organic-Soluble Polymers

TSKgel Alpha columns are composed of spherical, hydrophilic methacrylate beads. The main application area for TSKgel Alpha columns is the analysis of polymers that are soluble in polar organic solvents. Examples include cellulose derivatives, polyimide, and sodium dodecylsulfate (all in DMF with 10mmol/L DMF), cleansing gel in methanol, and degree of saponification of polyvinylalcohol in HFIP. Figure 1 shows the calibration curves of all Alpha columns.

Figure 1: Calibration Curves of TSKgel Alpha Columns

Unlike TSKgel PW-type columns, which are stable at most to a 50% organic mixed with water, TSKgel Alpha-type columns are stable in a wide variety of organic solvents at concentrations up to 100%. Suitable solvents are shown in Figure 2.

Mixed-bed TSKgel Alpha Column
The mixed-bed column, TSKgel Alpha-M, has an extended linear calibration range, and is suitable for samples with a broad MW distribution as well as samples with unknown molecular weight.